Deciphering the Role of Shank3 in Dendritic Morphology and Synaptic Function Across Postnatal Developmental Stages in the Shank3B KO Mouse.

ABSTRACT: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is marked by early-onset neurodevelopmental anomalies, yet the temporal dynamics of genetic contributions to these processes remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to elucidate the role of the Shank3 gene, known to be associated with monogenic causes of autism, in early developmental processes to inform the timing and mechanisms for potential interventions for ASD. Utilizing the Shank3B knockout (KO) mouse model, we examined Shank3 expression and its impact on neuronal maturation through Golgi staining for dendritic morphology and electrophysiological recordings to measure synaptic function in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) across different postnatal stages. Our longitudinal analysis revealed that, while Shank3B KO mice displayed normal neuro

SUBMITTER: Yang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11978597 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature